asked the Minister for Defence the number, strength and location of Army Bands.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Army Bands.
53.
Mr. Ryan
There are four Army Brass and Reed Bands, the location and present strength of each of which are as follows:—
|
Arm-Bhanna Uimhir a hAon, Baile Átha Cliath |
28 |
|
Banna Ceannasaíocht an Deiscirt, Corcaigh |
20 |
|
Banna Ceannasaíocht an Iarthair, Áth Luain |
27 |
|
Banna Campa Tréineála an Churraigh, An Currach |
27 |
In addition, there is a total of 64 pipe band instrumentalists serving in various units of na Buan-Óglaigh from among whom pipe bands are formed as required.
The Minister saw, as I saw, the Army Band parade in connection with the unveiling of a plaque at the Rotunda last Sunday. Does he not think it would be a useful thing from the point of view of the people generally and the morale of the Army if the people were afforded more frequent opportunities of hearing Army bands and seeing them on parade?
I fully agree with what the Deputy says.
Is there any insuperable difficulty in arranging it?
I cannot say offhand, but I am in favour of what the Deputy suggests. I have expressed the same view myself from time to time and I shall repeat it now.
As Minister, can you hold out any hope to me that our joint aspirations are likely to be realised?
When you cannot sing, you would not enjoy the band.
(Interruptions.)
The Deputy must not tempt me to make a tart reply. I am questioning the Minister.
I agree with the Deputy's suggestion. If it is possible to achieve what both he and I would like, I shall endeavour to have that done.
I wish the Minister luck in his exertions.
Is it not true that Army bands have been used to recruit people to the Army throughout the country?
Yes, they have been used for that purpose.
You do not have to sing to know music.
The people down the country never see the Army bands.